Psychological Services Specialist, DHS - Northeast Secure Treatment Unit, Luzern

THE POSITION

Are you looking for a fulfilling career that focuses on positively impacting the lives of court-adjudicated youth? If you possess strong skills and expertise in counseling and psychotherapy, the Department of Human Services (DHS), Bureau of Juvenile Justice Services, is eager to welcome you as a Psychological Services Specialist at the Northeast Secure Treatment Unit (NESTU). This position requires a collaborative spirit and a genuine dedication to supporting young individuals in their journey toward betterment. Take the first step toward a meaningful career by applying today!

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DESCRIPTION OF WORK

In this role, you will be responsible for assessing and facilitating the psychological components of rehabilitation and social development for adjudicated delinquent youth within the Youth Development Center. Serving as a key clinical team member-providing expert consultation to supervisory and counseling staff and ensuring all practices align with all standards. You will evaluate treatment programs, monitor compliance with best-practice guidelines, and implement corrective measures when necessary. Your role includes guiding program development, training direct-care staff, modeling healthy therapeutic interactions, and conducting clinical supervision to support staff growth and ensure residents receive individualized, high-quality care. Coordinating mental health services by contributing to psychiatric protocols, consulting on treatment needs, and shaping comprehensive treatment plans.

In addition to program oversight, you will provide direct clinical services through individual, family, and group therapy, as well as preparing detailed psychological evaluations informed by interviews, file reviews, and collaboration with program staff. Participating in court and mental-health hearings, maintain ongoing professional development, and uphold all ethical, legal, and regulatory standards. The position requires active involvement in crisis response, resident supervision, and mandatory training, along with the flexibility to work overtime during operational demands. Through these responsibilities, you will help maintain a safe, therapeutic environment that supports meaningful growth for both residents and staff.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours include the following shifts 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a 30-minute lunch. Four days between Monday through Friday and either Saturday or Sunday (Selected candidates choice)
• Travel and overtime as needed
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $67,736 (before taxes).
• FREE parking
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• A master's degree in a behavioral science, counseling education, rehabilitation, human development or a closely related field.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.
  

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• A conditional offer of employment will require a medical examination and drug screening.
• This position falls under the provisions of the Child Protective Services Law.
  • Under the Law, a conditional offer of employment will require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports including, but not limited to, PA State Police clearance, PA Child A